Abstract

This paper presents the development of Norway’s quality system for official statistics during the period 2021–2025. In 2021 the new Statistics Act (“Lov om offisiell statistikk og Statistisk sentralbyrå (statistikkloven)”) entered into force in its entirety. The Act introduced, among other things, a requirement that Statistics Norway (SSB) submit an annual public report to the Ministry of Finance on the quality of all official statistics in Norway.
In the 2021 allocation letter from the Ministry of Finance, SSB was instructed to submit a proposal for a quality system for official statistics. This article traces the development of that system from the initial assignment and proposal in 2021 through to 2025, highlighting key steps and milestones along the way. Key developments include the introduction of statistical-level quality evaluations for all statistics in the national programme, and the enhancement of quality review methods through the application of the total error model. We conclude with reflections on future directions for development, recognising that moving forward, the ability to assess, adjust and refine the quality system is crucial to maintaining user trust and safeguarding the distinct role of official statistics.